

Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas Against the Pelagians I Dr. Erik Dempsey
Aug 6, 2025
Dr. Erik Dempsey, an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, delves into the theological standoff between Martin Luther and Thomas Aquinas regarding Pelagianism. He highlights their mutual rejection of justification through human effort, showcasing how both thinkers emphasize the essential role of divine grace. The discussion also unpacks their nuanced differences on free will and merit, prompting a fresh perspective on their teachings. Dempsey's insights encourage a richer ecumenical dialogue on these historical theological debates.
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Pelagianism Denies Essential Grace
- Pelagianism asserts humans can achieve righteousness without divine grace, contradicting core Christian beliefs.
- Both Luther and Thomas strongly reject this, emphasizing the essential role of grace in justification.
Original Sin Shapes Human Nature
- Both Thomas Aquinas and Martin Luther affirm original sin as intrinsic to human nature, causing an innate inclination to sin.
- They assert humans are born guilty and unable to achieve righteousness without God's grace.
Babysitting Illustrates Original Sin
- Erik Dempsey shares a babysitting experience illustrating children's innate sinful nature.
- This example highlights Augustine's view that babies' weakness masks their natural inclinations toward sin.